As the two librarian selectors for adult fiction and nonfiction at the Kitsap Regional Library, Gail Goodrick and I are usually focused on the future, on what’s coming out next, working to add titles to the collection when they are fresh and new. As the year winds to a close, we recently took a break to reflect back on some of the books that have stood out, focusing on books that have staying power, because of their subjects, quality of writing and relevance to the world we live in today.

Many afternoons you'll find students doing homework and research projects at home or at the library. Librarians love to help students navigate through all the information they find on the Internet, especially in finding current, relevant, and accurate sources. With all the information available on the Internet, it can be challenging to make sure what you've found online is a reliable source for a project.

It has begun - the holiday season, and everything that goes along with it. Of course, retail establishments all started back in October, but for people like me - I'm just realizing that yes, my holiday deadlines are just around the corner. I need to find gifts for people, and fast! I'm not worried though - I have secret librarian tricks up my sleeve. Sometimes, I like to tell people I have a very particular set of skills...

We are well into cold and flu season and it seems like everyone’s got the sniffles. Sick days are the perfect time to use library materials to catch up on reading, watching, or listening. But sick days are not a great time to visit the library. Instead, try one of these ways to take advantage of the library from home!

It’s that time of year for deals, deals, deals! With Black Friday now behind us, we’re inviting you to celebrate Cyber Monday with us here at the Kitsap Regional Library. Our deals are just too hot to pass up; with a Kitsap Regional Library card, be prepared to save big. Your library card will give you access to thousands of titles for the below bottom-dollar price of $0.00. Nada. Zilch. How do you get in on these amazing deals? I’m glad you asked!

Ed Emberley loves to draw and believes that anyone can learn to do it; perhaps that’s why he’s one of my favorite illustrators. In 1970, Ed Emberley’s Drawing Book of Animals became the first in a long line of books by the artist focused on teaching children to draw using simple shapes, letters, numbers, and fingerprints.

There is a wealth of heritage to celebrate, as there are 800 unique tribes spread out from Alaska to Florida, from the Pacific to the Atlantic Coasts in the United States. Here are two ideas to commemorate the occasion:

As the weather begins to turn a little chillier and a little damper, take some time to treat yourself to a warm mug of something cozy and delicious. While you're at it, why not treat yourself to a new mug too? This fall at several Kitsap Regional Library locations, you can join us to decorate your own mug using oil-based Sharpies in an array of colors. All you need to bring is yourself! We'll have the mugs, the Sharpies, and some inspiring ideas to get you started. Then, take your mug home and bake it to make your design permanent.

A new biography about E.B. White, the author of the children’s books Stuart Little, Charlotte’s Web, and the Trumpet of the Swan was released a few weeks ago. Melissa Sweet, award winning author and illustrator, meticulously curates White’s lifetime of written work into a uniquely designed biography that includes stories and poems from his childhood, essays and articles he wrote for the New Yorker, and drafts and sketches from his beloved children’s books.

As we head out of October, you may notice the darkness encroaching earlier and the misty weather becoming more frequent. This is my favorite season and it reflects the kind of dark stories that are on my list for fall. Grab your hot cocoa and a cozy blanket and settle in for some creepy stories with female protagonists.

Come to the library for free, unbiased and confidential assistance enrolling for health insurance. Certified Navigators from Peninsula Community Health Services (PCHS) will answer your questions, review health insurance options for you and your family, find out if you qualify for financial help, and work with you to complete the enrollment process. PCHS Navigators are qualified to answer questions about all your health insurance options, including Medicare.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recently updated their guidelines regarding screen time for youth of all ages. The old guidelines were more succinct and there were two basic premises: screen time for children two and under was not recommended and for children two and over, no more than two hours a day.

The below blog post was written by Lia, a Make Do Share Intern at our Bainbridge Island location. Make Do Share internships are supported by a grant through the Institute of Museum and Library Services and provide teens and young adults (ages 16-25) with the opportunity to gain real world job experience while developing 21st century skills. They also help to make the Library's youth STEM programs more awesome.

One of the common complaints I hear from patrons is, "I thought libraries were supposed to be quiet!"

Usually, the person saying it is speaking at a volume at which everyone within a fifteen yard radius can hear the pronouncement. I never quite know how to respond to this one...is that a question, or an accusation? The unstated question being, "why aren't you [Mr. Librarian] doing anything about all this noise!?"

Fall is fast approaching and if crinkling leaves, early sunsets, and morning fog put you in the mood for some thrilling, chilling, and otherwise spooky reads, check out some of these Bram Stoker Award nominees and winners. The Bram Stoker Awards are given each year by the Horror Writers Association to original works written in English and have a variety of categories, like Novel, First Novel, Young Adult, and Graphic Novels.

Please join us this Saturday, October 15, in the Bainbridge High School Commons at 2:30 pm, when we will share an afternoon with best-selling author Alexander McCall Smith. The author of the popular and beloved No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series will read from and discuss the latest installment, Precious and Grace.

Looking for fun and inexpensive Halloween-related activities for your family this month? Well, look no further than your local library. There are Halloween and Autumn themed events happening at many of our Kitsap Regional Libraries throughout the month of October, and, here’s the best part, they’re free! As you are planning your schedule of ghoulish entertainment, don’t forget to add one (or all!) of these library events which are sure to raise your spirits this October:

We have many STEM programs throughout the fall this year. You'll find kids in the library building K'NEX bridges, designing video games, bird-watching, and participating in numerous additional programs helping develop science, technology, engineering, and math skills.